West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris has joined forces with the Herschel Museum of Astronomy in Bath to encourage residents and businesses to help reduce light pollution.
Light pollution from sports fields above Bath
Mr Norris is calling for people to “switch off the light at night” to save energy and encourage dark skies.
Light pollution is reported to be increasing around the world, with a recent study finding it has risen by 10% every year since 2011.
It can have serious side-effects, beyond ruining astronomy, with it being especially harmful to insects and other pollinators.
Dan Norris is calling for the United Kingdom to join countries such as France and South Korea in legislating to protect nightscapes through things like better-designed lighting and streetlight dimming schemes.
The Mayor is urging the public to play their part too, including by learning more about the growing problem through stargazing sessions, talks and other events planned by the New King Street-based Museum throughout this month as part of its ongoing Dark Skies campaign.
Mr Norris said: “A truly dark sky blanketed with stars is one of the natural world’s most magical sights, and for thousands of years the night sky has inspired so many around the world.
“But a lot of the time, and particularly in recent years, it’s been thick hazy, yellow fog and thinly-veiled disappointment for people wanting to experience this truly natural wonder – especially in more built-up areas. It’s left humans and wildlife alike paying the price.
“That’s why I’m urging everyone to help me tackle light pollution in the West of England. Every simple measure, like turning off those unnecessary lights and shutting curtains and blinds when we turn on lights indoors, will prevent light from spilling into our gardens and wild places.”
Tackling light pollution is a key priority for the West of England Combined Authority. The Local Nature Recovery Strategy is proposing to do things like add colour filters to LED streetlights and minimise lighting on the road network where it’s safe.
